The Northern Ireland rental market is entering its most significant period of change in decades. For landlords in Newry, staying profitable now requires more than just collecting rent—it requires navigating a complex new landscape of compliance and digital reporting

At KPM Property, we believe a well-informed landlord is a successful one. Here are the four critical updates you need to know for 2026.

Seven month notice periods.

The Department for Communities has launched a critical consultation on extending Notice to Quit periods. Under these proposals, landlords may soon be required to give up to seven months’ notice to tenants who have lived in a property for over eight years.

The Risk: Serving notice on the wrong form could invalidate the entire process, restarting your seven-month clock

What this means: Regaining possession for a sale or personal use now requires planning nearly a year in advance.

Mandatory Electrical report

Compliance is no longer optional. As of 1 December 2025, all existing tenancies in Northern Ireland must have a valid Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).

• Properties must be inspected by a qualified electrician every five years.
• Failure to do so may invalidate your landlord insurance.

Making tax digital begins April 2026

From 6 April 2026, the way you report rental income is changing. If your gross income from property and self-employment exceeds £50,000, you must:

• Keep digital records using HMRC-approved software.
• Submit quarterly updates to HMRC instead of a single annual return.
• The first quarterly deadline is 7 August 2026

Newry Market insights. Strong growth and high demand.

Despite the new regulations, the Newry market remains resilient. Average rents in the Newry, Mourne and Down area have risen to approximately £868–£875 per month.

• Annual rental growth in our region is currently outperforming much of the UK at over 6.6%.
• Demand remains at record highs, with an average of 52 enquiries per rental listing across Northern Ireland.

Contact KPM Property today for a free, no-obligation rental valuation.

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